Understanding Delta Pass Migration in Cloudiway
Learn how delta pass migration works to sync incremental changes after initial migration. Understand timestamps, file updates, and the 90-day limitation for delta passes.
What is a Delta Pass?
A delta pass is a subsequent migration cycle that syncs changes made to files after the initial migration. Instead of re-migrating all content, a delta pass identifies and transfers only the files that have been modified since the last migration run.
This capability is essential for minimizing cutover downtime and ensuring users have access to their most recent data when they switch to the new platform.
Cloudiway allows unlimited delta passes up to 90 days from the initial migration. This gives you flexibility to schedule your cutover while keeping data synchronized.
How Delta Pass Works
During each delta pass, Cloudiway performs the following steps:
Identify Previously Migrated Files
The platform checks its migration records to identify which files have already been transferred during previous migration runs.
Compare Timestamps
For each file, the system compares the migration timestamp against the file's last modification time in the source system.
Remigrate Modified Files
If a file's modification timestamp is more recent than when it was originally migrated, the system remigrates (overwrites) the file in the target location.
Delta Pass Timeline
Blue dots represent delta passes syncing changes
When to Use Delta Pass
Ideal Scenarios
- Pre-staging data before cutover weekend
- Minimizing cutover downtime
- Large data volumes requiring multiple passes
- Phased migration projects
Typical Workflow
- 1. Run initial migration (bulk of data)
- 2. Users continue working on source
- 3. Run delta passes to catch changes
- 4. Final delta pass before cutover
- 5. Switch users to new platform
Limitations
Permission Changes Not Included
90-Day Limit
Delta passes are available for 90 days from the initial migration. After this period, you'll need to restart the migration or purchase additional licenses.
Deleted Files Not Synced
Files deleted from the source after initial migration are not automatically deleted from the target during delta passes.
File Overwrites
Modified files are overwritten in the target. If users have made changes to files in the target, those changes will be lost during delta passes.
Best Practices
Plan Your Timeline
Start your initial migration at least 2-4 weeks before the planned cutover to allow for multiple delta passes and troubleshooting.
Schedule Regular Delta Passes
Run delta passes regularly (daily or every few days) to keep the data difference small. This makes the final cutover faster.
Communicate with Users
Inform users that permissions changed after initial migration won't be synced. Consider re-migrating specific items if permission changes are critical.
Final Pass Before Cutover
Run a final delta pass immediately before switching users to the new platform to capture any last-minute changes.
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